A Complete Guide to Unique Engagement Rings
by Suzanne Sachs — 5 min read
THE BASICS ---
Every bride-to-be dreams of a unique engagement ring, a gorgeous symbol of love and commitment unlike any ring another bride might wear. But what can make an engagement ring truly unique? There are more ways than many couples realize to find or create the ultimate unique engagement ring, no matter what a bride’s style preference or a couple’s budget may be.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW---
In this guide, we will explain the following:
- The Most Popular Engagement Rings
- What Makes an Engagement Ring Unique
- Stone Shape
- Stone Type
- Setting Style
- Metal Choice
- Metalwork
- Symbolism
- History
- Engraving
- Where To Buy A Unique Engagement Ring
- Your Most Unique Ring
The Most Popular Engagement Rings
Recognizing the most popular engagement rings is the first step for a couple to ensure their ring is unique. The classic round diamond solitaire, prong-set engagement ring is the most popular, familiar style beloved by brides for generations. Other widespread stone shapes are the princess cut, oval, and emerald-cut engagement rings, and couples looking for a more unique design may want to consider alternative diamond and gemstone shapes.
Other design options that are frequently seen include pave settings for extra bling, three stone rings with either diamonds or gemstones, and halo settings to enhance a center stone. Yellow gold and platinum remain the most popular metals for engagement rings of any style.
What Makes an Engagement Ring Unique
There are many ways to make an engagement ring unique, even if a couple prefers some elements that are widely popular. It is possible to create a beautifully unique engagement ring that is still instantly recognizable as a symbol of a couple’s dedication and commitment. Popular options include:
• Stone Shape
Instead of a popular stone shape, a more unusual shape or cut such as the cushion cut, Asscher cut, pear shape, trilliant, or heart can be an eye-catcher for an engagement ring. Combining different stone shapes, such as a round center stone accented with heart-shaped side stones, is another way to blend traditional and unusual elements for a one-of-a-kind design. Another option is to choose a stone with less-than-perfect proportions, such as a wider or narrower marquise or emerald cut, for a stunning ring that still has hints of traditional flair.
• Stone Type
Instead of a diamond, couples could select a different gemstone as the ring’s focal point. A ruby, sapphire, or emerald can be a gorgeous choice, or couples could go for even more unusual stone choices such as birthstones, synthetic diamonds, or pearls. Take care to understand the proper care of unusual gemstones, however, so they will look their best without risking damage.
• Setting Style
The prong setting is the most popular for engagement rings, but there are many other styles that can add unique touches to a ring. Consider bezel, tension, channel, split-shank, or bypass settings for uniqueness, or combine a prong setting with accents set in a different fashion for more texture and detail.
• Metal Choice
Yellow gold and platinum may be most common for engagement rings, but they are far from the only options. White gold can have a warm luster that adds character to a ring, while titanium and palladium are other bold choices. Colored golds – sage, rose, or even grey – blend gold with other metals for unique and charming hues. Different shades of gold can also be combined in a single ring for unexpected bursts of color.
• Metalwork
Extra details can be added to an engagement ring with intricate metalwork, turning a commonplace ring into a work of art. This could include extra stones in different settings, filigree detailing, milgrain edging, or other flourishes. Designs could be made geometrically, embrace the romance of flowers and nature, or have elegant wave-like patterns.
• Symbolism
A couple can easily add personalized symbolism to an engagement ring, creating a jewelry piece that tells their individual love story. This may be done through using birthstones as a center stone or accent stones to represent significant dates, choosing a vintage ring from a particular era special to the couple, purchasing the ring from a meaningful place, or adapting the number of stones in the ring for even more meaning.
• History
Choosing an engagement ring with a rich and detailed history is a great way to enjoy a unique ring. Vintage engagement rings and antique engagement rings come with their own tapestries of romance, and a new couple’s promise to one another can be another chapter in the ring’s story. The more a couple knows about an antique ring, such as a family heirloom, the more personal and unique it will be.
• Engraving
An easy and meaningful way to make an engagement ring unique is with personalized engraving. Many couples add their initials, a romantic sentiment, or even that all important question — Will You Marry Me? — inside the ring as a private touch. Dates are another popular option, and may be the date the couple first met, their first date, the date of the proposal, or the anticipated wedding date.
Where to Buy a Unique Engagement Ring
Many jewelry retailers can add unique details to an engagement ring, but a couple that wants a truly outstanding piece will do even better to start with a vintage or antique ring. These engagement rings already feature many details of uniqueness, and can be more affordable than new rings. A reputable vintage engagement ring dealer will also be able to provide customization services, such as switching stones, engraving, or adjusting the setting. Dealers experienced with vintage rings can also help trace a ring’s unique history, and are well-versed in the symbolism of different jewelry eras to help a couple choose their most meaningful ring. to your love and commitment for many happy anniversaries to come.
Your Most Unique Ring
Ultimately, the very best unique engagement ring is one truly unique to a couple and their special relationship. If the ring is a design or style important and meaningful to a couple, then it is their best ring, no matter what unique elements it may or may not include. In time, their own unique relationship will continue to add meaning to the ring, and a thoughtfully chosen engagement ring will be a beautiful part of their love story for many years to come.
Vintage Engagement Rings For Everyone:
No matter which era is your favorite, these time-honored rings have a rich history and individualized character and will continue to have a timeless beauty and elegant appeal that is part of a legacy to pass on to future generations.
Find The Perfect Engagement Ring:
Vintage rings are prized not only for their beauty but also for their exquisite attention to detailing and faceting. If you’re looking for a ring with a sense of glamour, sophistication and vintage charm, explore our collection of unique engagement rings today!
Suzanne Sachs
Contact Suzanne
If you love vintage or eco-friendly jewelry please feel free to contact Suzanne or browse our collection of eco-friendly vintage engagement rings.
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